Puppy Development: Entering into the Critical Socialization Period

While the early weeks of a puppy’s life are considered “critical” growth stages, by the time they reach 12 weeks old, they are entering into a crucial socialization period. This is the time when all of their experiences, both positive and negative, will influence their behavior as they grow into adult dogs. It is often referred to as the “foundational period” that informs who he becomes for the rest of his life.

​So how can you help your puppy during this crucial period? The best way to do this is to expose him to as much as possible, ensuring that all of his experiences are positive. Now that his immunity has matured, it is safe to go to public places such as pet stores and parks. It is also a great time to enroll him in puppy kindergarten, such as the AKC STAR Puppy class, where he will have the opportunity to play and interact with a variety of other dogs, and people, while learning important social and behavioral skills. 

Now is also the perfect time to start introducing your puppy to a variety of sights, sounds, and smells. If you ensure that your puppy has positive experiences with different people, things, voices, and more, then he is less likely to be surprised, scared, or even worse, aggressive when he encounters something new.

The following is a checklist of suggested situations to expose your puppy to as he grows up:
Child on a bike
Man wearing a hat
Crying baby
Person walking a puppy/dog
Person in a wheel chair
Man with a beard
Child dancing and jumping
Lawn mower
Tractor
Person using a broom
​Vacuum
Jogger
Veterinarian 
Shy person
Loud person
A festival or party
Mailman
Ride on an elevator
Person pushing a baby stroller
Person in a trench coat
Cat/kitten
Women in a dress
Man in a suit
Person with a ball
Screaming child
Child playing with a toy
Delivery person
People of different races
Person with sunglasses
Horse
Children at a playground
Person at a drive-through window
Pet store
Downtown sidewalks
Busy streets
Trucks and Cars
Shooting range
Dump trucks
Garbage trucks 
Fire trucks
Sirens
Person in uniform
Elderly person
Outdoor sporting games (basketball, baseball, tennis, etc.)

Of course, these are only a few suggestions, as there are a number of other opportunities you may be aware of based upon your own neighborhood situations. The greater the variety of experiences, the more comfortable your dog will be when she comes into contact with these situations. A knowledgeable dog is a confident dog!

Most importantly, make sure you take the time to share as many positive moments with your puppy as possible. Nurturing that relationship now will lay the foundation for a lifelong, loving bond between you and your dog.

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